Seabourn

Norwegian industrialist Atle Brynestad founded Seabourn in 1986, and its first small luxury ship sailed in 1988 with a yacht-like concept: few guests, spacious suites and attentive, unobtrusive service. Seabourn became part of Carnival Corporation and is based in Seattle, sharing headquarters with sister brand Holland America Line.

After selling two older ships, Seabourn sails a compact five-ship fleet. Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation carry about 600 guests, and Seabourn Quest about 450, each with a fold-out marina at the stern for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding in calm anchorages. Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit are purpose-built expedition ships with high ice-class hulls, carrying about 264 guests along with two custom submarines, kayaks and a fleet of Zodiacs.

Classic voyages cover the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Asia, Australia and world cruises, while the expedition ships sail Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberley in Australia and other remote coastlines.

Seabourn is elegant but relaxed, with a yacht-club atmosphere. Guests are affluent, mostly 55 and older, from North America, Europe and Australia, and many are repeat luxury cruisers. The ships are small enough that crew learn your name and drink order quickly. Evenings are elegant casual, with formal optional nights on longer voyages where many guests wear jackets or gowns. Seabourn Square, a combined lounge, coffee bar, library and guest services area, is the social hub. On expedition ships, life is casual and centered on landings, wildlife and lectures from a large expedition team.

The Restaurant serves multi-course dinners with open seating, The Colonnade offers indoor-outdoor casual dining and themed dinners, and The Patio serves poolside lunches and, on many ships, the Earth & Ocean dinner menu. Sushi is available on the Encore-class ships, and an upscale grill on the classic ships serves steak and seafood. In-suite dining is available at any hour, including full restaurant menus during dinner service. All venues are included.

Entertainment is intimate: cabaret and musical performers, a pianist and small band, and evening dancing. Seabourn Conversations brings experts, authors and scientists aboard for talks. Signature events include Caviar in the Surf, a beach party where crew serve caviar and champagne from the water on select Caribbean and Mediterranean sailings, and on the expedition ships, submarine dives (extra charge), kayaking and daily recaps.

All accommodations are suites, most with verandas, and even entry-level suites include a walk-in closet and a full marble bathroom. Penthouse, Owner’s, Signature and Wintergarden Suites add space and perks. The Retreat, a private sundeck with cabanas on the Encore-class ships, is available for an added fee. Expedition ships have veranda suites throughout.

Premium spirits, fine wines, champagne, beer, soft drinks and specialty coffees are included throughout the ship, and your in-suite bar is stocked with your preferences. A premium wine list is available for an added charge.

Gratuities are included in Seabourn fares, and tipping is neither required nor expected.

The Seabourn Club recognizes past guests with tiers based on days sailed, offering perks such as onboard events, savings on future voyages and complimentary services at higher levels.